Two world premieres and three European premieres in Geneva: Dynamism and efficiency

Geneva/Stuttgart. The beating pulse of a new generation: the centrepiece of Mercedes-Benz's appearance at the Geneva Motor Show (8 to 18 March 2012) will be the world premiere of the new A-Class, the sporty Mercedes in the compact segment. Also totally new is the SL 63 AMG, offering high performance par excellence. The E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID – the world's most fuel-efficient model in the luxury segment – will be on show for the first time in Europe, as will the lightweight, athletic and luxurious SL-Class and the ML 63 AMG. The SLK 55 AMG will be appearing for the first time in Switzerland. The C-Class Sport offers a new dimension in sportiness, while the C 180 and E 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Edition are shining beacons of efficiency. The CL "Grand Edition" stands for the ultimate in elegant luxury.

With the A-Class, Mercedes-Benz is opening a new chapter in the compact segment: emphatically emotional in design, dynamic, with engines rated from 80 kW (109 hp) to 155 kW (211 hp), highly efficient with emission values as low as 99 g CO2/km. TheA-Class is a clear statement on the dynamism of the Mercedes-Benz brand. At the same time, it also highlights the fact that safety is not a matter of price atMercedes-Benz – with standard-fit features including the COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST radar-based assistance system. The new A-Class (length/width/height: 4292/1780/1433 millimetres) will be making its way to European dealers in September 2012.

"A stands for 'attack': the A-Class is a clear statement on the new dynamism of the Mercedes-Benz brand," says Dr Dieter Zetsche, CEO of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars. "It is new down to the last detail. Such an opportunity to begin with a blank sheet is rare in the field of car development. Our engineers and designers have seized this opportunity in convincing style."

The design of the A-Class: emotional with a very sporty character

The design credentials and dynamism of the new A-Class are immediately apparent at first glance as it crouches up to 18 centimetres lower on the road than its predecessor. The design idiom presented with the "Concept A-CLASS" has been adopted wholeheartedly in the series production vehicle: with a new interpretation of the classic two-box design, the Mercedes designers have created an emotional exterior with a very sporty character. " Applying the new dynamic style of Mercedes-Benz to the compact class was a challenge that we thoroughly enjoyed"," relates Gorden Wagener, Head of Design at Mercedes-Benz. "The sculptural aspect of the A-Class design is typically Mercedes. The feature lines on the sides in particular lend the A-Class structure and a welcome edginess."

The aim in designing the interior was to complement the exterior's sporty appearance. The interior additionally derives a quality feel which is unique in the compact segment from the design idiom, the selection of high-quality materials and the available combinations of materials. And as with the Concept A-CLASS, a smartphone can be fully integrated into the control and display system. A dedicated app allows full use of the functions offered by the iPhone®, with other smartphones to follow in the future.

All trim surfaces feature an electroplated finish in "silver shadow", giving them a genuine metallic surface with "cool touch" effect. "This is just one example of the way in which the quality of the A-Class's interior is not defined by classic trim elements but by consistent design and by the specific materials used", explains Hartmut Sinkwitz, Head of Interior Design. "The motto we used when designing the interior was 'pure sportiness, newly interpreted'."

Sporty exclusivity: the Sport edition redefines dynamic performance

The performance specialists from AMG were involved for the first time at an early stage of the development process for the compact car. This involvement has spawned the model line's most dynamic version – the A-Class Sport Edition engineered by AMG, whose looks reveal a particularly close affinity to the Concept A-CLASS – by virtue of the new diamond grille, for example.

The drive: new engines for petrol and diesel fuel

A broad range of petrol and diesel engines covers all power requirements while defining a new benchmark in efficiency: for the first time ever, a Mercedes-Benz will emit only 99 g of CO2 per kilometre.

The new generation of petrol engines with a displacement of 1.6 and 2.0 litres covers an output spectrum ranging from 90 kW (122 hp) in the A 180 through 115 kW (156 hp) in the A 200 to 155 kW (211 hp) in the A 250. Features common to all these engines are the combination of direct injection with exhaust-gas turbocharging, an enhanced combustion process and extended stratification ranges for lean-burn operation by means of fast-acting injectors for multiple fuel injections and multiple ignition according to the prevailing requirements. The 1.6-litre engine features the world premiere of the innovative CAMTRONIC system. As a result of adjustment of the valve lift at the intake end the quantity of fresh gas is limited in the partial load range, reducing fuel consumption.

The diesel engines also boast extreme efficiency and environmental friendliness, thanks to state-of-the-art injection technology and turbocharging. The A 180 CDI kicks off at 80 kW (109 hp) and offers maximum torque of up to 250 Nm, while in the A 200 CDI the maximum power output stands at 100 kW (136 hp), accompanied by maximum torque of 300 Nm. The A 220 CDI has a displacement of 2.2 litres and generates 125 kW (170 hp) of power and 350 Nm of torque, enabling outstanding performance in the A-Class.

All engines of the new A-Class feature the ECO start/stop function as standard. The engines can be combined with the new six-speed manual transmission or optionally with the 7G-DCT dual clutch automatic transmission.

Other highlights: chassis and suspension, aerodynamics, safety

The chassis realises the dynamism which is promised by the design and the drive technology. The substantially lowered centre of gravity and the new four-link rear axe provide the basis for the effective transmission of power to the road and for the potential deployment of 4MATIC all-wheel drive. The customer has a choice of various chassis and suspension set-ups, including the optional sports suspension with Direct-Steer system. The electromechanical steering of the A-Class has been redesigned. The electric motor of the servo assistance system is now located in space-saving configuration directly on the steering gear as a high-precision dual pinion EPS system.

The perfect aerodynamics of the A-Class grant it a Cd value of 0.26 – a new benchmark in its class. The standard-fit roof spoiler concealing all the aerials on board the A-Class is also a contributory factor here.

The A-Class is the only car in its segment to feature a radar-based collision warning system with adaptive Brake Assist as standard, which lowers the risk of rear-end collisions. The COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST system gives a visual and acoustic warning to alert a possibly distracted driver to identified obstacles, and prepares Brake Assist for the most precise possible braking response. This is initiated as soon as the driver emphatically operates the brake pedal.

The PRE-SAFE® preventive occupant protection system is available for the first time in the A-Class. This marks the debut in the compact class of this innovation which was premiered in the S-Class back in 2002.

The new E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID is all set for its market launch with record efficiency values of 4.2 l diesel/100 km and 109 g CO2/km, accompanied by increased torque and power output. Its modular hybrid concept with lithium‑ion battery does not impose any compromises on space and offers an impressive driving experience thanks to start/stop, recuperation, boost effect, all-electric driving and sailing. The E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID is the world's most fuel-efficient model in the luxury segment.

Mercedes-Benz is setting new standards for luxury-class business vehicles: the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID, which is available as a saloon and an estate, boasts truly impressive performance. Its 4-cylinder diesel engine generates 150 kW (204 hp) of power and 500 Nm of torque. The diesel engine combines with an electric motor rated at 20 kW and 250 Nm to produce a harmonious overall concept.

"The E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID represents the continuation of our comprehensive hybrid offensive. The modular technology paves the way for us to quickly introduce hybrid models to complement other model series," explains Professor Dr Thomas Weber, Daimler Board Member for Group Research and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars Development. "By clearly focussing on the different requirements of the global markets, we are able to offer precisely the models that our customers want."

The new SL-Class: light, athletic, luxurious

The all-new SL sees Mercedes-Benz continuing a tradition that began 60 years ago, since when "SL" has always stood for a symbiosis of sportiness, style and comfort – and for trailblazing innovations. The SL consists almost entirely of aluminium for the first time and weighs in at up to 140 kilograms lighter than its predecessor. The highly rigid all-aluminium body-in-white provides the basis for emphatically sportier, agile handling accompanied by exemplary ride and driving comfort.

New BlueDIRECT engines provide for enhanced driving dynamics; they are more powerful and at the same time up to 29 percent more fuel-efficient than the previous generation of engines. Totally new features are the Frontbass system, a world-first that transforms the luxury sports car into a concert hall irrespective of whether the top is up or down, and the MAGIC VISION CONTROL adaptive wiper/washer system, which applies water to the windscreen from the wiper blade in the required quantities and according to the wiping direction.

SL 63 AMG: high-performance roadster

The latest version of the Mercedes-Benz SL 63 AMG high-performance roadster impresses on several counts: systematic lightweight construction, increased output and enhanced driving dynamics, all combined with a 30 percent reduction in fuel consumption and emissions. Thanks to an all-aluminium bodyshell, similar to that of the SLS AMG supercar, the vehicle has shed 125 kilograms. With a kerb weight of 1845 kilograms and an output of 395 kW (537 hp) or 415 kW (564 hp), the new model boasts the perfect ingredients for unparalleled dynamism and a sublime driving experience that is truly unique.

A further boost in performance comes courtesy of a winning combination: a further improved AMG sports suspension based on Active Body Control, new AMG speed-sensitive sports steering, the AMG high-performance compound braking system and the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission. An enticing mix of stylish design, extensive standard equipment and a high level of safety.

Intelligent lightweight construction is one of the major factors behind the low fuel consumption figures. The SL 63 AMG is built around a lightweight all-aluminium bodyshell similar to that of the SLS AMG supercar. Compared to the outgoing model, this design not only delivers a weight reduction of around 110 kilograms, it also greatly enhances rigidity, safety and comfort. The boot lid helps to further trim the weight. For the first time on a volume-produced model, the inner support is made from lightweight carbon-fibre composite. The extremely rigid carbon-fibre component is bonded to the plastic outer shell, resulting in a weight saving of five kilograms compared to a conventional boot lid.

SLK 55 AMG: top figures in all disciplines

The Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG is the most powerful SLK of all time. Its newly developed naturally aspirated AMG 5.5-litre V8 engine with cylinder shut-off system combines ultimate performance with minimised fuel consumption. With a maximum output of 310 kW (422 hp) and peak torque of 540 Newton metres, the SLK 55 AMG outperforms all of its direct competitors. The SLK 55 AMG accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds, and reaches a top speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited). Its fuel consumption of 8.4 litres per 100 kilometres (NEDC combined) and CO2 emissions of 195 grams per kilometre are some 30 percent lower than the figures for its predecessor.

ML 63 AMG: efficiency and superlative performance

The new Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG stands for efficiency and performance, exclusivity and a superlative driving experience. Burning 11.8 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres (NEDC combined, 276 g CO2/km), the high-performance SUV undercuts its predecessor by 28 percent. The basis for the low fuel consumption and top-class performance is provided by the AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine. The eight-cylinder unit extracts a maximum power output of 386 kW (525 hp) and 700 Newton metres of torque from its displacement of 5461 cc. In conjunction with the AMG Performance package, these figures rise to 410 kW (557 hp) and 760 Newton metres. Both variants of the ML 63 AMG deliver sports car-like performance: the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h takes 4.8 seconds and 4.7 seconds respectively, while top speed stands at 250 km/h (electronically limited).

C-Class Sport: the C-Class has never been sportier

Mercedes-Benz is sharpening the profile of the C-Class: with the new "Sport" Coupé models developed with AMG and the new "AMG Plus Sports package", there has never been a wider choice of sporty versions. The new models are available from June 2012. The AMG Plus Sports package can be combined with all body and engine variants.

The name says it all – the new coupé models C 250 Sport and C 250 CDI Sport are decidedly dynamic, as the performance specialists at AMG were heavily involved in their development. In addition to the visually enhanced AMG Plus Sports package, both models have technical features which further increase driving enjoyment. Cornering and handling characteristics are more dynamic thanks to an AMG sports suspension, more direct speed-sensitive sports steering, a sports exhaust system and a more sporty transmission configuration in S and M mode. The matt paint finish "designo magno platinum" is exclusively available for the Sport models.

Presenting the most economical E-Class diesel and C-Class petrol models to date: with fuel consumption of 4.5 litres/100 km and emissions of 119 g CO2/km for theE 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Edition and 5.8 litres/100 km and 136 g CO2/km for the new C 180 BlueEFFICIENCY, Mercedes-Benz is giving an impressive demonstration of just how much potential is still left in the internal-combustion engine. Take theC-Class, for instance: since its predecessor was launched in 2000, the output of theC 180 has increased by 21 percent, whilst consumption has been reduced by 37 percent. The present version of the C-Class is nearly twice as efficient as its predecessor.

The E 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Edition that is available from March 2012 is simply one of the most economical cars in its segment. Thanks to a bundle of efficiency-boosting measures, including an Aerodynamics package, electric power steering (EPS), a longer final-drive ratio and size 205/55 R 16 tyres with low rolling resistance, the model emits just 119 g CO2/km – ten grams or nearly eight percent less than before and equates to 4.5 litres of diesel per 100 km. The E 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Edition has an output of 125 kW (170 hp) and is available with a 6-speed manual transmission only.

The turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol unit is the brand new entry-level engine for the C-Class. With fuel consumption of 5.8 l/100 km and a CO2 figure of 136 g/km, the improvement compared to the previous C 180 when similarly equipped is as much as 21 g/km, or just under 1 l/100 km. This makes the C 180 BlueEFFICIENCY one of the very first petrol models to be ranked in energy efficiency class B. The 115 kW (156 hp) engine is very light when compared to its competitors and delivers impressive agility from standstill – peak torque of 250 Nm is on tap from just 1250 rpm all the way up to 4000 rpm.

CL "Grand Edition": exclusive luxury

The exclusive "Grand Edition" of the CL from Mercedes-Benz features attractive exterior paint finishes and more exclusive interior appointments. The range of paint finishes offers a choice between designo platinum black metallic, designo magno cashmere white and designo mocha black. The exclusive appearance is rounded off by 20-inch light-alloy wheels. Inside, the "Grand Edition" offers single-tone aniline leather in porcelain, armagnac or deep black. The "Grand Edition" is available as a CL 500,CL 500 4MATIC and CL 600.

Viano PEARL Limited Edition: exclusive touring van

The vision presented at the Frankfurt International Motor Show has now become reality in the form of the Viano PEARL touring van, which indulges its occupants with the finest materials. The front seats and the four individual seats in the rear are upholstered in finest two-tone nappa leather, for example, and the rear boasts a real walnut floor. The electrochromatic glass of the rear side windows can be darkened at the touch of a button. A "BeoSound Viano" sound system from Bang & Olufsen, produced and tuned specifically for the Viano PEARL Limited Edition, provides for superior on-board audio quality. There is a choice of two powerful V6 engines – a diesel rated at 165 kW(224 hp) and a petrol version rated at 190 kW (258 hp).

Vito E-CELL crewbus: first seven-seater with electric drive

The Vito E-CELL crewbus is the first seven-seater vehicle worldwide to offer local emission-free mobility ex-factory as standard. With its range of around 130 km it is ideal for use in environmentally sensitive areas, such as pedestrian zones, city centres or health resorts. The electric motor (60 kW, 280 Nm), power electronics, transformer and AC/DC charger are accommodated under the bonnet. The generated power is transmitted to the front wheels. The powerful and robust lithium-ion batteries are accommodated under the passenger compartment floor.